Situated on the north bank of the River Tyne, at the lowest bridging point, Newcastle is generally regarded as the capital of the north-eastern region of the United Kingdom. Initially a Roman settlement, Pons Aellius, the city grew to become an important site during the expansion of the wool trade in the fourteenth century and later played an integral role in the nation’s booming coal industry. Today the city hosts the Great North Run and boasts numerous icons, among which are its famous Newcastle Brown Ale and successful Premier League team, Newcastle United FC.

Evidence of Newcastle’s past can be seen in its streets. The city’s Roman origins are represented by remaining sections of Hadrian’s Wall, and its industrial heritage is evident in its quayside and warehouses. In addition to these more visually obvious fragments of the past exist little-known passages, buildings, tunnels and other secret places that reveal more of Newcastle than meets the eye. Join author Ken Hutchinson in exploring the more clandestine aspects of the city’s long and varied history.